5-Day Enchanting Exploration of Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

5 days

Bora Bora beach
Bora Bora underwater
Bora Bora
Bora Bora Island
Bora Bora

About Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Experience the enchanting beauty of Bora Bora, French Polynesia, a tropical paradise nestled in the South Pacific. This idyllic island, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush greenery, and iconic overwater bungalows, offers a tranquil retreat like no other. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, hike up the majestic Mount Otemanu, or simply relax on the pristine white sandy beaches. Indulge in Polynesian culture with traditional feasts and dance performances. Luxurious resorts provide world-class spa treatments, gourmet dining, and stunning sunset views. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or romance, Bora Bora promises an unforgettable journey.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Lagoon and the Island

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Lagoon. Enjoy the vibrant marine life and the breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch on the beach, with local delicacies such as poisson cru (raw fish salad) and fresh tropical fruits.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the island, visiting local villages, pearl farms, and ancient marae (sacred sites).

Dinner

Enjoy a Beachfront dinner with a traditional Polynesian dance show.

Evening

Relax under the stars, listening to the gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean.

Morning

Embark on a Shark and Ray Feeding Excursion. Experience the thrill of swimming with these magnificent creatures.

Lunch

Enjoy a lunch on a private Motu (islet), with a stunning view of the Lagoon and the main island.

Afternoon

Go on a 4x4 Safari Tour to explore the island's interior, with its lush vegetation and panoramic views.

Dinner

Have a romantic dinner on the beach, with the sunset as your backdrop.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, under the moonlit sky.

Morning

Take a Canoe Trip around the Lagoon, visiting secluded beaches and hidden coves.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch on a deserted beach, surrounded by the pristine beauty of nature.

Afternoon

Visit a local Art Gallery, showcasing the works of Polynesian artists.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, sampling the best of Polynesian cuisine.

Evening

Attend a Traditional Polynesian Music Concert, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Morning

Go on a guided hike to the top of Mount Pahia, enjoying the spectacular views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

Lunch

Have a lunch at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like fafaru (fermented fish) and uru (breadfruit).

Afternoon

Take a boat trip to a nearby Coral Garden, snorkeling among the colorful corals and tropical fish.

Dinner

Have a dinner on a floating restaurant, with the Lagoon as your dining room.

Evening

Relax on the beach, watching the stars and listening to the sound of the waves.

Morning

Spend your last day relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and the beauty of Bora Bora.

Lunch

Have a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Polynesian cuisine one last time.

Afternoon

Do some last-minute shopping at a Local Market, buying souvenirs and local crafts.

Dinner

Have a farewell dinner at a Beachfront restaurant, reminiscing about your wonderful trip.

Evening

Take one last stroll along the beach, saying goodbye to the beautiful island of Bora Bora.

Attractions in Itinerary (13)

Lagoon

1
Lagoon

A beautiful, crystal clear body of water perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating.

Attractions
Beaches
Tours
Mount Otemanu

2
Mount Otemanu

The highest point in Bora Bora, offering stunning views of the island and lagoon. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Attractions
Landmarks
Beachfront

3
Beachfront

A stretch of pristine, white-sand beach ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

Beaches
Shark and Ray Feeding Excursion

4
Shark and Ray Feeding Excursion

An exciting tour where guests can feed and swim with sharks and rays.

Tours
Sports
Motu

5
Motu

A small, uninhabited islet off the coast of Bora Bora, perfect for a secluded beach day.

Attractions
Beaches
4x4 Safari Tour

6
4x4 Safari Tour

A thrilling off-road tour of the island's rugged terrain and wildlife.

Tours
Canoe Trip

7
Canoe Trip

A peaceful canoe trip around the lagoon, offering stunning views of the island.

Tours
Sports
Art Gallery

A gallery showcasing the work of local artists, with pieces available for purchase.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Traditional Polynesian Music Concert

9
Traditional Polynesian Music Concert

A concert featuring traditional Polynesian music and dance performances.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Mount Pahia

10
Mount Pahia

A towering mountain offering challenging hikes and panoramic views.

Attractions
Landmarks
Coral Garden

11
Coral Garden

A vibrant underwater garden teeming with colorful coral and marine life.

Attractions
Sports
Local Market

12
Local Market

A market selling a variety of local goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Island Tour

13
Island Tour

A guided tour of the island, showcasing its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Poisson Cru

Poisson Cru

This is the national dish of French Polynesia, made from raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. It's a must-try when in Bora Bora.

Chevrettes

Chevrettes

These are small shrimps that are often served with a garlic butter sauce. They are a popular seafood dish in Bora Bora.

Fafa

Fafa

Fafa is a traditional Polynesian dish made from taro leaves and chicken cooked in coconut milk. It's a staple in Bora Bora.

Poulet Fafa

This is a variation of the Fafa, where chicken is used instead of taro leaves. It's a popular dish in Bora Bora.

Fe'i Bananas

These are a type of banana that is native to French Polynesia. They are often used in desserts or eaten raw in Bora Bora.

Uru

Uru, or breadfruit, is a staple food in Bora Bora. It can be roasted, boiled, or made into a dessert.

Matuata

Matuata is a local beer brewed in French Polynesia. It's a popular choice for tourists looking to try a local drink in Bora Bora.

Tahitian Vanilla

Tahitian Vanilla

Tahitian vanilla is renowned for its quality and is used in a variety of dishes and desserts in Bora Bora.

Coconut Bread

This is a sweet bread made with coconut milk. It's a popular breakfast item in Bora Bora.

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi is a type of fish that is often grilled or baked in Bora Bora. It's a popular choice for seafood lovers.

Rum Tahiti

Rum Tahiti is a local rum made from sugarcane. It's a popular choice for tourists looking to try a local drink in Bora Bora.

Pineapple Wine

This is a unique wine made from pineapples. It's a must-try for wine lovers visiting Bora Bora.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bora Bora, French Polynesia is during the months of May to October. This period is often referred to as the dry season or winter season, with less rainfall and humidity, making it the most comfortable time for tourists. The temperatures during this time are warm and pleasant, ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Additionally, this period is also the peak season for tourism due to the favorable weather conditions, so it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 5

Tue

Missionary Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 8

Wed

Victory Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

June 29

Sat

Autonomy Day

July 14

Sun

French National Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

To reach Bora Bora, you'll first need to fly into Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Bora Bora's Motu Mute Airport via Air Tahiti.

Once you arrive at Bora Bora's airport, you'll need to take a boat transfer to reach the main island or your resort. Many resorts offer their own boat transfers directly from the airport.

While Bora Bora is a small island, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental agencies available, including Avis and Europcar.

For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, renting a bicycle is a popular option. Bora Bora's flat terrain and scenic roads make it a great place for cycling.

Renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to get around Bora Bora. Scooters are widely available for rent, and driving them is relatively easy due to the island's light traffic.

Bora Bora has a public bus system, known as Le Truck, which operates around the main island. However, service can be infrequent and may not reach all areas.

Taxis are available in Bora Bora, but they can be expensive and are not always readily available. It's recommended to arrange taxi service in advance.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not currently available in Bora Bora.

For a unique way to explore Bora Bora, consider renting a private boat. This allows you to visit secluded beaches and snorkeling spots at your own pace.

Many resorts in Bora Bora offer shuttle services to and from popular attractions on the island. This can be a convenient option if you're planning to spend most of your time at the resort.

For those who prefer a structured itinerary, there are many guided tours available in Bora Bora. These can include land-based tours by bus or 4x4, or water-based tours by boat or jet ski.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency XPF

Time zoneUTC-10

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 15; Fire: 18; Police: 17

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type DPower socket type E

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Bora Bora, French Polynesia as a first time visitor

1

Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia, which is an overseas territory of France. Therefore, the official language is French, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

2

The local currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

3

Bora Bora is located in the South Pacific, and it has a tropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).

4

The island is known for its luxury resorts, many of which feature overwater bungalows. These can be quite expensive, so budget accordingly.

5

Bora Bora is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

6

The island is small and can be explored by bicycle or on foot. There are also car and scooter rental services available.

7

Bora Bora is not known for its nightlife. Most activities are centered around the beach and the ocean, and evenings are typically quiet.

8

The island's cuisine is a mix of French and Polynesian influences. Seafood is a staple, and you should try local dishes like poisson cru (raw fish in coconut milk).

9

Tap water is not safe to drink in Bora Bora. Always drink bottled water.

10

Bora Bora is in the Tahiti Time Zone, which is 10 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-10).

11

Bora Bora has a laid-back, casual dress code. However, it's respectful to cover up when you're not on the beach.

12

The island has a small population of around 10,000 people. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

13

Bora Bora is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples due to its romantic setting.

14

The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sharks, rays, and many species of tropical fish.

15

Bora Bora's peak tourist season is from May to October, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also when prices are highest.

16

The island is accessible by plane. Most visitors fly into Tahiti and then take a short domestic flight to Bora Bora.

17

Bora Bora has a high cost of living due to its remote location and reliance on imports. Expect to pay more for food, drinks, and goods than you would at home.

18

The island's main industries are tourism and pearl farming. You can visit a pearl farm to learn about the process and buy authentic Tahitian pearls.

19

Bora Bora has a rich Polynesian culture. Traditional music and dance are important parts of local life, and you may have the opportunity to witness a performance during your stay.

20

The island is known for its stunning sunsets. Make sure to take the time to watch one during your visit.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ia ora na

Yaorana

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Nānā

Nana

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Mārū

Maru

Making a request

Thank you

Māuruuru

Maorooroo

Expressing gratitude

Yes

E

Eh

Agreeing with someone

No

Aita

Aita

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

E aha

E aha

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Aita au e 'ite

Aita au e ite

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

Teie te farii pape?

Tayay te faree pape?

When you need to use the bathroom

I need help

Ua 'ore au i te tauturu

Ua ore au i te tauturu

When you need assistance

Do you speak English?

E parau 'oe i te reo pārāni?

E parau oe i te reo parani?

When you need someone to speak English

How much is this?

E 'ōfea teie?

E ofea teie?

When you want to know the price of something

Water

Vai

Vai

When you want to order water

Food

Ma'a

Ma'a

When you want to order food

Beer

Pia

Pia

When you want to order beer

Wine

Vīni

Vini

When you want to order wine

Good morning

Ia ora na i te poipoi

Yaorana i te poipoi

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Ia ora na i te po

Yaorana i te po

Saying goodnight to someone

I'm sorry

Mārū

Maru

Apologizing

I love you

Ua here au ia 'oe

Ua here au ia oe

Expressing love to someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Flip flops

  • Sandals

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion

  • Insect repellent

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and traveler's checks

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • International plug adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Travel blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel guide and maps

  • First aid kit

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

  • Snorkeling gear

Weather Conditions

Bora Bora, a tropical paradise in French Polynesia, experiences warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the island has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, you can expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 84°F (21°C to 29°C). The weather is generally sunny and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and beach lounging. However, as it's the peak tourist season, be prepared for higher prices and more crowds. The wet season, from November to April, sees more rainfall and higher humidity. Temperatures during this time range from 75°F to 86°F (24°C to 30°C). Despite the rain, the island remains warm and the showers are often brief, so you can still enjoy your vacation. Plus, you'll benefit from fewer tourists and lower prices. However, keep in mind that cyclones can occur during this season, although they are rare. Regardless of when you visit, remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a good sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong tropical sun. Also, don't forget your swimsuit and snorkeling gear to enjoy Bora Bora's stunning lagoons and coral reefs. In conclusion, Bora Bora is a year-round destination. Choose the dry season for less rain and more sun, or the wet season for fewer crowds and lower prices. Just be prepared for the occasional tropical shower and remember to protect yourself from the sun.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 25°

January is the wettest month in Bora Bora, with frequent showers and high humidity. However, the temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

February

31° / 25°

February continues the wet season, with high humidity and rainfall. Temperatures are similar to January, with highs of 31°C.

March

31° / 25°

March sees the end of the wet season, with decreasing rainfall. The temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

April

31° / 25°

April marks the start of the dry season, with less rainfall and humidity. The temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

May

30° / 24°

May is a pleasant month to visit Bora Bora, with less humidity and rainfall. The temperatures slightly drop, ranging from 24°C to 30°C.

June

30° / 24°

June is one of the coolest months in Bora Bora, with low humidity and rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, making it a comfortable time to visit.

July

30° / 24°

July is the coolest month in Bora Bora, with low humidity and minimal rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, offering a comfortable climate for outdoor activities.

August

30° / 24°

August continues the cool and dry trend, with low humidity and rainfall. The temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C, making it a popular month for tourists.

September

30° / 24°

September marks the end of the cool season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. The humidity and rainfall start to increase towards the end of the month.

October

31° / 25°

October sees the start of the wet season, with increasing rainfall and humidity. However, the temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

November

31° / 25°

November is a wet month in Bora Bora, with high humidity and frequent showers. The temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C.

December

31° / 25°

December is the peak of the wet season, with high rainfall and humidity. The temperatures are warm, ranging from 25°C to 31°C, making it a tropical getaway for those escaping colder climates.

Did you know?

Did you know that Bora Bora is known as the 'Pearl of the Pacific' due to its stunning beauty and high-end luxury resorts?

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